By Agrobroadcast Team.
Agriculture expert, Ajibola Adetula, has said the adoption of modern farming systems is critical to tackling food insecurity and improving agricultural productivity in Nigeria.
Adetula noted that providing farmers with modern equipment, improved seedlings and adequate training would significantly increase farm output and boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Speaking on the state of agriculture, the expert, who is also a House of Representatives hopeful for the Owo/Ose Federal Constituency in Ondo State, called for the reintroduction of agricultural extension services and farm settlements to better support farmers and improve productivity.
According to him, many farmers in the state still depend on outdated seedlings with lower yields compared to improved crop varieties, a situation he said continues to limit food production and farmers’ income.
He urged governments at all levels to prioritise the provision of modern farming equipment, improved crop varieties and livestock breeds, while also investing in training programmes that would expose farmers to modern agricultural practices.
Adetula added that the introduction of irrigation systems would enable farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, thereby increasing food supply and strengthening national food security.
To improve agricultural value chains, he recommended capacity-building programmes for small-scale farmers involved in crop production, fish farming and poultry to enhance both the quality and quantity of their output.
The agriculture expert also disclosed plans to facilitate the establishment of a dairy cluster in Isuada, located in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, to boost milk and beef production in the area.
Adetula further revealed that his large-scale farm in Ekiti State currently produces rice, palm oil and tomatoes as part of efforts to contribute to agricultural development and food security.